Peppermint Candy Cane Hogfish

Peppermint Candy Cane Hogfish (Bodianus sepiacauda). It is a semi-aggressive species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its striking red-and-white candy-cane banding, elongated body, bold swimming behavior, and rarity in the trade.

Males typically display brighter coloration with more defined striping and may grow slightly larger, while females/juveniles show softer, less intense coloration and can appear slimmer in body shape. They reach about 6–7 inches in adulthood and should be housed in aquariums of at least 70–90 gallons.

Provide ample live rock for hiding spots, caves, and foraging areas, along with open swimming space. A fine sandbed is suitable, and tanks should maintain stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4). A secure lid is essential, as hogfish are known jumpers.

Their diet should consist of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, copepods, finely chopped seafood, high-quality pellets, and occasional algae-based foods. With proper care, this fish makes a standout, showpiece addition to the aquarium, offering both beauty and activity.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.